Abstract
The goal of this study is to develop a percutaneous insertable intra-pericardial balloon and to evaluate its hemodynamic effects. New device consists of the pre-wrapped balloon, the drive line and the sheath (15Fr) for insertion. The balloon is air-driven and inserted directly for good positioning (anterior of the LV free wall and RV free wall). We use mongrel dogs under general anethesia, and intra-pericardial balloon (volume 20cc) is inserted by Seldinger technique or mini-thoracotomy or median sternotomy. Heart failure was induced by propranolol (2mg/kg, iv and 50-100%mu;g/kg/min, div). The balloon was synchronously driven with ECG (2:1). We measured hemodynamic parameters (aortic pressure, aortic flow, right atrial pressure, pulmonary arterial pressure and cardiac output) during off-on test and compare the effect of two positions. The balloon (20cc) increased cardiac output by 7.7% under profound heart failure after administration of propranolol. Conclusion: This simple and quick insertable Intra-Pericardial Balloon is very promising as a bridge to other powerful mechanical assist devices for profound heart failure.
